In the following question, select the word that is most similar in meaning to the given word: Obliterate.

Introduction / Context:
This question checks your understanding of advanced vocabulary. The word “obliterate” is often used in serious or formal contexts, especially in news reports, science writing, and literature. It describes a very strong action related to destruction or removal. Being able to link “obliterate” with its correct synonym helps you read complex texts with better accuracy and answer vocabulary questions with confidence in competitive exams.

Given Data / Assumptions:
- Target word: “Obliterate”. - Options: Construct, Annihilate, Revive, Initiate. - Task: Choose the option that has the closest meaning to “Obliterate”. - We assume the standard dictionary meaning of “obliterate” as used in modern English.

Concept / Approach:
“Obliterate” means to destroy something completely so that nothing remains, or to erase it so thoroughly that it is as if it never existed. For example, “The town was obliterated by the explosion” or “The writing was obliterated by heavy rain.” Therefore, the correct synonym should express complete destruction or wiping out. The other options talk about building, beginning, or bringing something back to life, which are conceptually opposite to destruction.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1. Recall the meaning of “obliterate” as total destruction or removal. 2. Examine each option: - Construct: to build or put together. - Annihilate: to destroy completely or wipe out. - Revive: to bring back to life or restore. - Initiate: to start or begin something. 3. Compare these meanings with “obliterate”. Only “Annihilate” carries the sense of complete destruction. 4. Confirm by substituting in sentences: “The army obliterated the enemy” is very close to “The army annihilated the enemy”.

Verification / Alternative check:
Try a quick test using context: imagine an old manuscript. If heavy water damage “obliterates” the text, it means you cannot read it any more. Saying that the water “constructed” or “initiated” the text makes no sense, and “revived” also contradicts the idea of destruction. This mental image proves that “Annihilate” matches the intensity and direction of “obliterate”.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Construct: This is the opposite of destroy; it means to build up, not to wipe out. - Revive: Means to bring something back to life or restore its strength, which contradicts complete destruction. - Initiate: Refers to beginning an action or process, and has nothing to do with erasing or destroying something.

Common Pitfalls:
Sometimes learners confuse “obliterate” with weaker words like “damage” or “spoil.” However, “obliterate” is much stronger and implies that the original object or mark is gone beyond recognition. Another pitfall is not paying attention to the intensity of synonyms. In exams, options may include words with related meanings but different strengths, so always ask yourself whether the word expresses mild, moderate, or complete action. In this question, “Annihilate” matches the extreme force of “obliterate”.

Final Answer:
The word similar in meaning to “Obliterate” is Annihilate.